Study Links Seismic Surveying to Dramatic Drop in Fish Catch Rates

A new scientific study has confirmed what commercial fishers have long suspected: seismic testing for offshore oil and gas can devastate local fish populations, with catch rates plummeting by as much as 99.9%.

The study examined a seismic survey conducted offshore near Lakes Entrance, Victoria, from January to March 2020.

Published in Marine Environmental Research, the report found that catch rates for whiting dropped by 99.9% in the first three months after the survey concluded. Even after 290 days, catch rates remained 98% lower than pre-survey levels.

The research was produced by Fishwell Consulting and led by Dr. Ian Knuckey, who holds a PhD in fisheries population dynamics.

Economic Stakes and Regulatory Response

The Lakes Entrance region supports a $35 million commercial fishing industry, making the findings particularly significant for local livelihoods.

The offshore regulator, NOPSEMA, has already ordered a compensation payout related to this case—an indication that regulators are taking the impacts seriously.

Seismic surveying relies on intense, continuous air gun blasts. Environmental and fishing groups have long argued that these blasts can damage or disrupt marine life, and this study provides some of the strongest evidence yet linking the practice to immediate fishery collapse.

Key Reactions

Dr. Ian Knuckey, lead author of the study, said the findings were stark:

"Seismic testing significantly reduced the short-term availability of fish, with almost no fish caught in the survey area in the short term."

He recommended that baseline monitoring be conducted prior to any future seismic testing to better understand and mitigate impacts.

Simon Boag, executive officer of the South East Trawl Fishing Industry Association, said the study confirmed what fishers have been reporting for years. He called for increased regulation to avoid overlap between seismic testing and commercial fishing areas.

Greens Senator Peter Whish-Wilson said the findings were "not surprising" and expressed hope the study would trigger precautionary measures or additional research into the practice.

A spokesperson for NOPSEMA reaffirmed the regulator's commitment to evidence-based regulation to protect the marine environment.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Australian Energy Producers pushed back, stating:

"Marine seismic surveying is a tightly regulated, proven technology essential for energy security and emission reduction."

Broader Implications

The study suggests significant potential for fishery disruption and economic impact at regional levels, with effects lasting nearly a year after a single survey.

Simon Boag noted he hopes other states will follow Tasmania's lead in reducing seismic survey areas to avoid commercial fishing zones—a move that could protect both fish stocks and fishing livelihoods.